NRL 2 years ago

Storm eye off NRL defensive record

SYDNEY, AUSTRALIA - JUNE 11: Kevin Proctor of the Storm celebrates scoring a try with team mates during the round 14 NRL match between the Sydney Roosters and the Melbourne Storm at Allianz Stadium on June 11, 2016 in Sydney, Australia. (Photo by Brett Hemmings/Getty Images)

Halfway through the NRL season, Melbourne are on their way to setting a new defensive benchmark.

The Sydney Roosters were the first side in Australian rugby league history to secure six shutouts of opposition sides on their way to the 2013 NRL premiership.

Just after the halfway mark of this season, ladder leaders Melbourne have kept a side scoreless three times following their 46-0 thumping of the Roosters in round 14 at Allianz Stadium on Saturday night.

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The Roosters claimed five regular season shutouts in 2013 and another in their 4-0 finals win over Manly.

That year the Roosters conceded just 325 points over 24 games, at an average of 13.5 points per game.

So far this season, Melbourne have had less than half of that figure scored against them.

The Storm have conceded 136 points in 13 games at an average of 10.5 points per game.

Melbourne have conceded 52 points less this season than the next best defensive teams in Cronulla and North Queensland, who will meet on Monday at Shark Park.

The Storm significantly upped their offensive effort against the Roosters, but it is his side's defence that Melbourne coach Bellamy was most pleased with.

"We scored 46 points but our game is based on our defence," Bellamy said.

"That is where we set our foundation, that is where we set our platform.

"As I have said a few times this year I am very proud of the way we are defending."